Graham Norton’s latest vintage hits 3 million bottles

Talk show host turned winemaker Graham Norton has siginifcantly ramped up production this year, while also adding his first Prosecco to the mix.

This year marks the fifth year that Norton has partnered with Kiwi producers Invivo Wines, with a Sauvignon Blanc, rosé and Shiraz forming the backbone of the range.

Beginning in 2014, the initial launch of 14,000 bottles has grown to 3 million bottles this year, with demand coming from New Zealand, Australia, UK, Ireland, USA, Norway, Denmark, Hong Kong and Japan.

Invivo, known for launching the Graham Norton wine brand, is also New Zealand’s largest crowdfunded company.

Their latest round of investment raised £2m in capital, which will be used to drive Invivo’s current range and create new opportunities, according to winemaker and co-founder winemaker Rob Cameron.

Its board members include former Accolade Wines CEO Paul Schaafsma, who holds the title of independent director.

“After five years collaborating with us, Graham has really nailed his own winemaking style,” said Cameron at the blending session for the 2018 vintage.

“He’s blended some very easy-to-drink, appealing and award winning wines and is incredibly hands on.”

For the new sparkling wine, Norton and Invivo partnered with growers in the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions of Northern Italy.

In May, Benchmark Drinks became distributors for Graham Norton Wines in the UK.